This enzyme is involved in both liver and bone, so elevations may indicate problems with the liver or bone-related disease. Healthy ratio: a bit over 1, favoring albumin Alkaline phosphatase Elevated protein levels could indicate a health condition in need of attention. The A/G ratio test compares levels of these proteins with one another.
There are two types of protein your blood - albumin (see above) and globulin. Healthy range: 3.9 to 5.0 g/dL A/G ratio (albumin/globulin ratio) or total protein test Anything higher may indicate liver damage.Ī protein made by the liver, albumin levels can be an indicator of liver or kidney problems. When all’s well with your liver, your score on this test should be within range. This test looks at levels of the liver enzyme ALT. Chemistry Panel (or Metabolic Panel) ALT (alanine aminotransferase) Today, we have a wide range of testing options to choose from, with blood tests being among the most basic.ĭuring a physical examination, your doctor will often draw blood for chemistry and complete blood count (CBC) tests as well as a lipid profile, which measures cholesterol and related elements.īlood tests use the metric measurement system and abbreviations such as the following:īlood tests allow a doctor to see a detailed analysis of any disease markers, the nutrients and waste products in your blood as well as how various organs (e.g., kidneys and liver) are functioning.īelow, we’ve explained some of the commonly measured indicators of health. Not that long ago, doctors diagnosed patients through observation and the patients’ answers to questions. Why your doctor tests your bloodīlood tests, sometimes called blood panels, are one of a physician’s most basic tools.
That way, the next time you have blood work done, you’ll be able to read the results like a pro. This below guide provides a brief explanation of the abbreviations used in measurements and descriptions of several common test components. So to empower our readers, here is a simplified guide to understanding your blood test results. If you’re interested in playing a more active role in your medical care-something we strongly recommend-then we suggest you save this. If you’re like most people, you’ve probably looked over the alphabet soup of acronyms and abbreviations in your blood test results and wondered what it all means.